Another thing is, I really don't like the look of a 58cm bike... headtube gap wise. They are just ugly, Purefix says that their 54cm will fit up to 5'-11" and I'm 6'-1"... is 54cm really going to make a huge difference if I add a longer stem and raise the seat? Or will I just look awkward on a smaller bike and feel cramped?

Dude, don't play around with sizing! You must make certain that your bike absolutely fits! Otherwise, you might tend NOT to cycle so often.

Another thing is, I really don't like the look of a 58cm bike... headtube gap wise. They are just ugly, Purefix says that their 54cm will fit up to 5'-11" and I'm 6'-1"... is 54cm really going to make a huge difference if I add a longer stem and raise the seat? Or will I just look awkward on a smaller bike and feel cramped?

I don't understand this at all. Go by top tube length for your size. I'm guessing that a TT of between 565 and 575 mm would be in the right range. Whatever bike model/size gives you the correct top tube (witthin the additional adjustability of stem reach choice) - that's the right one.

Depending on the geometry of the frame manufacterer, of course. Don't buy a silly small frame just for aesthetics. Don't do it.

I don't either. A too small frame with a ton of spacers, giant stem with rise, and ridiculous saddle to bar drop looks way worse than a larger frame. 54cm frame is TOO SMALL for someone that is 6'1". I know, I have a bike with a frame that looks bad because of this.

Also don't understand that when given the option of a higher quality bike for cheaper, someone still opts for the bike of less quality. You're not getting any quality control with Purefix, Critical, or Bikes Direct. Might as well get the "highest quality" product available.

I have a lot of years riding fixed, myself and found about 70 Gear Inches (48:16 on a 700c wheel/28-32 mm tire) is a great all around gear for urban riding. Short enough to muscle a hill but tall enough for some decent speed as well, and won't blow out your knees.

Isn't 48:16 ~80gi? I think 48:18 would be appropriate at around 71gi (I personally consider that my general purpose ratio, although I'm currently running a bit larger).

Dude, don't play around with sizing! You must make certain that your bike absolutely fits! Otherwise, you might tend NOT to cycle so often.

Again, make certain that your bike fits!

Purefix will say anything to make an additional sale...

54cm sounds too small for a 6' 1'' cyclist to me!

I just don't want to have knee/back problems if I get a smaller frame. A 54cm frame was just a quick thought.

I don't understand this at all. Go by top tube length for your size. I'm guessing that a TT of between 565 and 575 mm would be in the right range. Whatever bike model/size gives you the correct top tube (witthin the additional adjustability of stem reach choice) - that's the right one.

Depending on the geometry of the frame manufacterer, of course. Don't buy a silly small frame just for aesthetics. Don't do it.

I figured TT was going to make the most difference, just like in BMX. I'm pretty set on the 58cm.

I don't either. A too small frame with a ton of spacers, giant stem with rise, and ridiculous saddle to bar drop looks way worse than a larger frame. 54cm frame is TOO SMALL for someone that is 6'1". I know, I have a bike with a frame that looks bad because of this.

Did you read the thread? I'm new here, just asking these questions to make sure I'm doing everything properly. Thanks for the advice homie.

Also don't understand that when given the option of a higher quality bike for cheaper